The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has strongly criticized the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for its recent threats against Amnesty International. SERAP described the police’s actions as harassment and a direct attack on civil rights, urging President Bola Tinubu to step in and put an end to the intimidation.
The advocacy group highlighted that Amnesty International is merely fulfilling its role in defending the rights of Nigerians.
Background on the Dispute
This development follows a demand by the Nigerian Police for Amnesty International to issue an apology and retract its report titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on End Bad Governance Protests.”
The report, published in response to last year’s protests against bad governance, accused the Nigerian government of using excessive force to suppress dissent. The police, however, claim the report is misleading and damages their reputation, which they argue has been built on efforts to restore public trust.
The NPF has given Amnesty International a seven-day ultimatum to apologize and retract the report, threatening legal action if the organization fails to comply.
SERAP’s Response and Call to Action
Reacting to the police’s stance, SERAP condemned the threats and urged President Tinubu to intervene. In a statement, the organization said:
“We urge President Tinubu to direct the police to immediately end their harassment and threats against Amnesty International in Nigeria solely for defending the rights of Nigerians.
“The threat shows an escalating crackdown on civic space in the country.”
Broader implications
SERAP’s concerns reflect growing fears over the shrinking space for civil society and freedom of expression in Nigeria. Amnesty International has long been a vocal advocate for human rights in the country, and any attempt to silence such organizations could set a dangerous precedent for democracy and accountability.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes will be on President Tinubu’s administration to see whether it will uphold the rights of civic organizations or side with the police in this controversial standoff.
